Dandelion, one of our most ubiquitous weeds, is a serious problem in lawns and in many other crops. In tree fruits it lures bees away from the fruit blossoms. It is a weed of alfalfa fields as well. The seed head is quite symmetrical and beautiful. However, the parachute attached to the seed carries it far and wide. A perennial with a large taproot, its leaves are considered a delicacy by some folks both for salad greens and also for boiled greens. Each plant can be removed by use of a dandelion knife but it must go deep into the ground to remove all of the crown buds.
Photo by Dr. John Meade, weed scientist emeritus
Rutgers NJAES Cooperative Extension